1️⃣NordVPN
NordVPN tops our list for blistering speeds, airtight privacy, and rock-solid streaming access. Independent audits back its no-logs policy, and RAM-only servers add extra peace of mind. It is the rare VPN that is both powerful and beginner-friendly.
Address: Vilnius, Lithuania
- Audited no-logs policy
- RAM-only servers for extra security
- Outstanding speeds with WireGuard
- Unblocks Netflix
- BBC iPlayer
- Hulu
- and more
- Threat Protection blocks ads and malware
- 24/7 live chat
- day money-back guarantee
- Huge global server fleet
- Meshnet and advanced extras
- No permanent free plan
- Some specialty servers are app-only
- Linux app lacks a full GUI
2️⃣ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is the premium pick when you want set-and-forget privacy with excellent streaming reliability. Its TrustedServer tech runs on RAM-only, leaving nothing on disk. It is fast, slick, and consistent across regions.
Address: Road Town, British Virgin Islands
- TrustedServer RAM-only technology;Rock-solid streaming access worldwide;Simple, polished apps;Strong obfuscation for restrictive networks;Split tunneling and kill switch;24/7 live chat;30-day money-back guarantee;Great for travel
- Pricier than most rivals
- Limits to 8 simultaneous connections
- No dedicated IP option
3️⃣Surfshark
Surfshark packs premium features at a bargain price, plus unlimited devices on one account. It is fast on nearby servers and good for streaming. Performance can dip on distant locations, but the value is hard to beat.
Address: Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Unlimited device connections
- Excellent value on long-term plans
- CleanWeb ad and tracker blocking
- Audited security
- Works in restrictive networks
- Modern WireGuard speeds
- Occasional slowdowns on faraway servers
- Smaller server fleet than the top two
- Some advanced settings are tucked away
4️⃣CyberGhost
CyberGhost is the easy button for first-timers, with streaming-optimized servers and friendly apps. Long money-back windows sweeten the deal. It is not the fastest and power users may want more control.
Address: Bucharest, Romania
- day money-back guarantee
- Beginner-friendly apps
- Streaming-optimized servers
- Huge global server list
- Low prices on multi-year plans
- Speeds can fluctuate under load
- Not ideal for bypassing the strictest firewalls
- Fewer advanced privacy toggles
5️⃣Private Internet Access
PIA is a tinkerers dream with open-source apps and deep customization. It now allows unlimited devices and has a massive network. US jurisdiction and mixed streaming results hold it back from the top spots.
Address: Denver, USA
- Open-source apps
- Unlimited device connections
- Port forwarding and lots of tweaks
- Huge server footprint
- Very low price on long plans
- Based in the USA jurisdiction
- Streaming unblocking can be hit or miss
- Learning curve for new users
- Speeds vary between regions